Blessed and Blameless

Scripture and Questions for Study and Reflection:
Read Psalm 119: 1-16.

1. Psalm 119 is written as an acrostic. What does that mean? Why was it likely written that way?

2. In the first few verses, the psalmist describes the “blessed” life. What are some of the criteria the psalmist uses for those who are “blessed”? Are those criteria easy or hard? How does this make you feel?

3. In the video, Matt Chandler described the first few verses as “crushing.” What did he mean by that? What is “crushing” about these verses?

4. In the video, Chandler talks about how Psalm 119 points to Jesus. In what way is Jesus the answer to how we can be blessed and blameless?

5. Chandler says, “The blessed life begins by trusting the finished work of Jesus Christ and believing that confession, repentance and embracing our weakness does not lessen the blessed life, but ushers us into it.” What does he mean by that? In what ways is the Holy Spirit also involved in this?

6. Pastor Mick shared an adage from recovery ministries that says, “You’re only as sick as your secrets.” What does this adage mean? What does it mean for our faith lives and our need to confess our sins?

7. Did any of the lyrics of Matthew West’s song, “Truth Be Told” ring true for you? If so, which ones, and why?

8. Pastor Mick said we make the Gospel more complicated than God intends it to be. Do you agree? Why/why not?

Prayer for the Week:
Almighty God, thank you for Jesus, who paid the price for our sins so we are viewed as “blameless” in your sight. Thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit who works within us to transform us into the likeness of Jesus, so that we might live truly blameless lives. And thank you for your grace that enables us to live blessed and blameless lives, even when we continue to fall short of what you created us to be. Remind us that these gifts are offered to everyone. Help us to see and love others as you see and love them, that we might transform this world and advance your kingdom, right here on earth. We pray all of this in the strong name of Jesus, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever. Amen.